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Idillic Umbrian Farmhouse with Private Pool Views of Montone 2BR/1BA

Idillic Umbrian Farmhouse with Private Pool Views of Montone 2BR/1BA

Total privacy - Only you and your guest are on the property with a private pool.
Situated on a wooded hillside you have spectacular views, peace and tranquillity, always a fresh breeze, the fragrances of Rosemary, Thyme, and Juniper around you, and an overall feeling that is so soothing to your soul; our guests always want to stay on longer.
The Perfect spot for a family with kids, a couple wanting a romantic and secluded place, or an artist needing quiet in an inspirational setting.
The position of the property is perfect because it is not far from the comforts of civilisation, yet you are alone on your wooded hillside without the noise of farm equipment, traffic, or neighbours. Also, the property sits up high enough so there is no need for Air Conditioning.
Visit at a short distance: Gubbio, Assisi, Cortona, San Sepolcro, Citta di Castello and other villages and cities. Follow the Wine Route through Umbria and taste the incomparable Sagrantino di Montefalco and other great wines. This is also a great Olive Oil region and you can visit local groves. You can also buy direct Umbrian fabrics in Umbertide or the famous ceramics of Deruta.
Major Activities in Montone:
Spring: The Easter Festival (Easter Week)
July: Umbria Jazz in Perugia (Search the web for details)
The Umbria Film Festival in Montone
Band Music Exchange Week (Every evening a different Band)
August: The Medieval Festival of Montone where the whole town turns back some 500 years; One week of events including street theatre, flag throwing 'sbandieratori', competitions in archery and other sports, and of course FOOD and Wine!
November: Festa del Bosco (The Forest Festival) with a taste of local Porcini mushrooms, truffles, jams, sauces, and Olive Oils; of course FOOD and Wine.
Keywords: Restored Stone House

Overview

One one unit, 2 Bedrooms + Detached Unit, 1 Bath, (Sleeps 4-6)

Total privacy - Only you and your guest are on the property with a private pool.

Situated on a wooded hillside you have spectacular views, peace and tranquillity, always a fresh breeze, the fragrances of Rosemary, Thyme, and Juniper around you, and an overall feeling that is so soothing to your soul; our guests always want to stay on longer.

The Perfect spot for a family with kids, a couple wanting a romantic and secluded place, or an artist needing quiet in an inspirational setting.

The position of the property is perfect because it is not far from the comforts of civilisation, yet you are alone on your wooded hillside without the noise of farm equipment, traffic, or neighbours. Also, the property sits up high enough so there is no need for Air Conditioning.

Visit at a short distance: Gubbio, Assisi, Cortona, San Sepolcro, Citta di Castello and other villages and cities. Follow the Wine Route through Umbria and taste the incomparable Sagrantino di Montefalco and other great wines. This is also a great Olive Oil region and you can visit local groves. You can also buy direct Umbrian fabrics in Umbertide or the famous ceramics of Deruta.

Major Activities in Montone:

Spring: The Easter Festival (Easter Week)

July: Umbria Jazz in Perugia (Search the web for details)

The Umbria Film Festival in Montone

Band Music Exchange Week (Every evening a different Band)

August: The Medieval Festival of Montone where the whole town turns back some 500 years; One week of events including street theatre, flag throwing 'sbandieratori', competitions in archery and other sports, and of course FOOD and Wine!

November: Festa del Bosco (The Forest Festival) with a taste of local Porcini mushrooms, truffles, jams, sauces, and Olive Oils; of course FOOD and Wine.

About Jonathan

My wife is from Rome, I am from Connecticut, and we met in Honduras! For the past twenty+ years we have worked as expatriates, but this is our base and where we want to spend our free time.

Jonathan purchased this farmhouse in 1993

Why Jonathan chose Citta di Castello

My wife would escape the heat and chaos of Rome each summer and stay in this area, so as soon as we had enough saved up we bought this old farm house; a real fix-er-upper, and now look at it!

We did not buy it as a vacation rental property, but there is so much extra room that we decided to share it (and help offset some of our expenses).

What makes this farmhouse unique

You are the ONLY ones on the property - no other units rented. The owners may be there, but total privacy can be arranged.

We are so close to being far away. With the amazing local food, great views, and peaceful surroundings we just feel so good the moment we arrive. One local Capuchin monk commented, 'This place feels so Franciscan!' We agree, there is something so soothing about this place; no exaggeration.

Want the place all to yourself? Don't feel like sharing the pool?

We can arrange complete privacy for you (in peak season for 20% premium for exclusive use of property)

Guestbook comments from the manager

Date of Stay: August 2008

This property near Montone in the stunningly beautiful Umbrian hills, is the closest we have come to a perfect holiday location for many years, if ever before.

It took a painstaking internet search early this year to find such a gem, and from the moment of booking I was not disappointed. Jonathan, the owner, contacted me within a couple of hours with some helpful advice and insights, and nearer the time of arrival sent a comprehensive and helpful property guide plus details of a good route from our arrival airport (Ancona)

When we arrived at the top of the winding track, we were immediately overwhelmed by the beauty of the place; even more so when we learned that we were the sole occupants of the whole property for the fortnight!

Jonathan and Roberta, who were present for our first day showed us around; from that point we just revelled in the peace and tranquility of the house, grounds and superbly kept pool (thanks Alberto!)

You may accuse me of hyperbole, but I can't describe the utter relaxation of sitting on the patio, overlooking Montone on the next hill, watching the Buzzards hunt in the wooded hillsides and seeing the sun set, with the stars gradually appearing in a sky unaffected by light pollution, with a glass of Orvieto in hand!

For those with families, the property is very well equipped; although Umbria has a negligible crime rate, the electric gates offer extra security, and also prevent younger children wandering off. The more adventurous will find a number of interesting towns within 30 minutes to 1 hours drive. Montone itself is a gem, and it has a number of excellent local bars and restaurants. Nearby Umbertide has everything else but less character.

For high quality shopping, Perugia has some fantastic offerings, not forgetting the local Perugina chocolate!

Mandi and I will be returning here; it would be difficult to find a more conducive spot to get away from the rigours of everyday life for a week or two!

Queen size Beds (1) In main upstairs bedroom, Twin or Single Beds (1) Two in second upstairs bedroom, Baby Cribs (1) We also have a High-Chair and a stroller. One new and comfortable sofa-bed is located downstairs in the living area.

Entertainment:

CD Player

DVD Player

Stereo ...

Television ...

Toys ...

Outside:

Bicycles ...

Deck / Patio ...

Gazebo ...

Lawn / Garden

Outdoor Grill ...

Wood Deck

1 bicycles

4 garden chairs

Suitability:

Long-term Renters Welcome

limited accessibility ...

Pool / Spa:

Communal Pool ...

Private Pool ...

Attractions:

museums

restaurants

ruins

winery tours

Leisure Activities:

antiquing

bird watching

eco tourism

horseback riding

scenic drives

shopping

sight seeing

walking

wildlife viewing

Local Services & Businesses:

ATM/bank

fitness center

groceries

hospital

medical services

Sports & Adventure Activities:

cycling

fishing

hiking

hunting

mountain biking

swimming

Notes:

Great position: up on a wooded hillside, no neighbors, green lawn, views of Montone (a medieval hilltop village), a Fortress, and the Apennine Mountains. Use of traditional wood-fired oven (Forno a legna).

A gem of a property in quiet Umbrian countryside

We first discovered this property in 2008 when we were looking for a quiet retreat in the Umbrian countryside. The owner, Jonathan was quick to reply with some excellent information about the house and surroundings, and we have remained entranced with it ever since, returning almost every year.

The main draw for us is the seclusion- it is a single property away from roads and other properties, but is within easy access of Montone and Umbertide. The house is well equipped, and the grounds and pool immaculately maintained.

Although the owners do not live on site, they have been present during some of our stays, and have proven to be fantastic hosts, with a wealth of information about the property and the area. In their absence the property manager visits to answer questions and is equally helpful.

Inside, La Fienile is well equipped and comfortable. There is a good TV if you want it, and very good internet access. Cooking facilities are basic but there are so many good restaurants and bars in the area that occupants may well not wish to cook!

We are already planning our return for 2017. Enough said!

Submitted: Dec 19, 2016

Stayed: Aug 2016

Source: VRBO, from HomeAway

Owner's Response: You have travelled extensively in Italy for so many years and the fact that you choose to stay with us now for eight consecutive years is such an acknowledgement of what the property offers.
We really appreciate your feedback as it helps us to fine-tune what we offer. Thanks to you both for your repeat business!

We keep coming back- that says it all!

We first came to Pianella (the local name for the property) in 2008, and fell in love with it. Since then we have returned whenever possible for our summer holiday accompanied at various times by our grown up children and partners.

This year we came for the first two weeks of August- unfortunately a week too early for the Santa Spina festival in Montone, which culminates on the penultimate Sunday in August. Our elder son came this year much to the chagrin of his brother who could not get time off work- they both love the place as much as we do!

So what is the magic, and why do we keep coming back? Of course personal taste counts for a lot, and we love the peace and tranquility of Pianella. The facilities are perfect for us- both houses are equipped well and the pool and gardens are beautifully designed and maintained.

As soon as we arrive at the top of the hill (a little trickier this year as for some reason the car hire company had given us a large people carrier!) we feel at home and grounded in the atmosphere. As always Matteo was there to greet us, and give us a run down on things going on in the village. This year Matteo's blues band did a fantastic free concert in the cloister of the church and there were other free events throughout our stay.

Montone itself remains a gem of a town- maybe getting a little more tourists these days but still has a very local feel, especially early morning and later in the evening. Cafe Aries in the main square has had a makeover but still offers excellent value for snacks and drinks- breakfast for three was never more than a total of €10!

One small regret is that there is no longer a 'cheap and cheerful' Pizzeria/Trattoria in the village. The restaurants are all very good, but can be pricey for everyday dining. Our favourite remains the Taverne del Verziere where the food is excellent and varied. Antica Osteria on the square is also very good but getting pricey. For a rustic Trattoria this year we discovered the reopened La Cantina just outside Umbertide. Fantastic Pizzas and pasta and great service, in a sheltered courtyard in the middle of the country, and at less than €20 per head.

The magic for us continues- thanks to Roberta, Jonathan, Matteo and the grounds team. We will be back!

Submitted: Sep 25, 2015

Stayed: Jul 2015

Source: VRBO, from HomeAway

Owner's Response: We really appreciate your thoughtful and informative reviews.
You are very experienced travelers the fact that you enjoy our place means so much to us and hopefully people considering this location will find your comments useful .
You are always most welcome and we hope to see you again.
Sincerely,
Jonathan & Roberta

Return to paradise

This was our second time to Campo della Fiora. We are family with 4 kids (4-14 yrs) and stayed in la Porcilaia for two weeks, just like we did two years ago. The place is wonderful and no photos can properly show the beauty and serenity of the place. The property and gardens are all well kept and the property manager Matteo is extremely helpful. We loved to stay and play at the pool and we will never forget our outdoor dinners where we could admire the magnificent view of Montone. There are several places of interest to visit within 0,5-1 hour distance, just perfect distance for a day-trip. This time we visited Cortona, Gubbio, Spoleto, Bevagna and also made a two hour drive to Firenze. Food supply, either supermarkets or restaurants, are within 10 minutes of car drive. We can recommend this place for anyone seeking peace and beauty. We will definitely come here again...

Umbrian Paradise

We (both of us are 71) stayed for a week in the one-bedroom cottage, la Porcilaia (the Pigsty), at this unique and wonderful farmhouse estate outside of Montone, Umbria. It was over the Easter weekend and it was a glorious stay combining the Umbrian Spring with the holiday festivities in Montone and nearby Assisi.

The cottage was everything we could have wanted, with all the conveniences and accommodations necessary for an enjoyable vacation.

We used the hilltop estate as our base and took day trips to, among other sites: Assisi, Cortona, Orvieto, Gubbio, Pietralunga, Spello, Arezzo and Citta di Castello. Being only 5 minutes away from Montone was a great plus. Montone is a jewel of a hill-town: small, compact, rich in history and friendly. We visited it three or four times during our short stay.

And, I write "short stay" with meaning. If we had known what a wonderful home-away-from-home Campo della Fiora and la Porcilaia was going to be, we would have stayed two weeks or more.

The quiet, the views looking to Montone and the Apennines, the bird-songs, the wildflowers, the spectacular sunrises and sunsets, and, the central location allowing easy drives to all the places we had read and dreamed about.

It was a glorious stay. We are already planning to visit again.

Submitted: May 3, 2014

Stayed: Apr 2014

Source: VRBO, from HomeAway

Owner's Response: Jon, your comments are very much appreciated as they are so helpful to potential new guests. We are just sorry that we were not there to meet you personally, but thankfully the property manager took good care of your needs in our absence. We hope to have you again in the future. Thank you, Jonathan & Roberta

paradise

We (Family with two boys, 8 and 10 years old) spend two weeks in Sommer 2013 at Roberta´s and Jonathan´s house. Everything was perfect and there was absolutely nothing to complain about. Beautiful, relaxed retreat in one of the most beautiful places in Italy (the world?). Beautiful house with magnificent view and beautiful separate swimming pool... and on top of it the most friendly host / owner ever. Thank you once again Roberta and Jonathan. Five stars.. I would even give more.

Just to mention: you need a car to get around

Submitted: Jan 13, 2014

Stayed: Aug 2013

Source: VRBO, from HomeAway

Owner's Response: Thank you Oliver for your comments and we certainly do appreciate hearing that you enjoyed your stay so much.
We are giving the interior fresh paint this winter and are busy with other maintenance so that everything is working perfectly for this summer.
We had such a great time enjoying a few sunsets with you guys and watching the boys as they created their own pizzas in the outdoor oven.
You are always welcome!!
Sincerely,
Jonathan & Roberta

Nirvana

We have always wanted to travel to Italy...of course to see the sights that are world-renowned but also to have a family holiday where we could relax. We realized this dream with a 4 week stay in Italy this summer but the definite highlight of the trip was staying at this beautiful villa near Montone. It is just off the path of tourists that seem to gorge the country in the summer but also close enough in proximity to drive to many of the major destinations. Montone is a quintessential medieval village with excellent food and the friendliest people! The villas themselves were stunning and being able to be at this property truly encapsulated everything that we had idealized/visualized/glamorized about what an "Italian experience" should be. We truly cannot recommend this property enough...it is perfect for families but also for adults or couples. The owners were exceptionally gracious and helpful in responding to all of our questions and concerns and they were definitely an asset in terms of our travel planning. This property is up quite a steep hill so not for faint-of-heart drivers but it is easy to get to and easy to get to other destinations from so it is worth it! The pool is magnificent and provided much respite from the heat of the summer in Italy. There are truly not enough adequate words to describe how wonderful this experience was for our entire group...we have and will continue to recommend this property to friends and will also plan to return ourselves in the future!

Submitted: Sep 28, 2012

Stayed: Jul 2012

Source: VRBO, from HomeAway

Owner's Response: Thank you for the complements and your gracious recommendation Zoe! It is true that the road up is a bit steep and narrow - we are used to it, but I can see why you point it out; good point.
We hope to meet up with you again one day and it was nice meeting you. Best regards,

Additional information about rental rates

Cleaning Fee

$72

Please Note:
Our rates on this site are quoted in USD, but they were converted from the Euro at $1.10/Euro. If at the time of booking you prefer to use the actual prevailing exchange rate, then we will adjust the quote at that time accordingly.

* Approximate monthly rate. Actual rate will depend on the days of the month you stay.